Which statement best describes the effects that stress has on the immune system?

• A. Stress has no measurable impact on the immune system.
• B. Chronic stress can suppress immune function, making individuals more susceptible to illness.
• C. Acute stress permanently damages the immune system.
• D. Stress always strengthens the immune system and improves resistance to disease.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the difference between acute and chronic stress. Acute stress is short-term and can sometimes temporarily boost immune function, while chronic stress is long-term and tends to have more harmful effects.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the immune system is sensitive to psychological factors, including stress, which can influence its ability to fight off illness.
3. Step 3: Learn that chronic stress leads to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can suppress the immune response over time.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the statements by comparing them to established psychological and physiological research findings about stress and immunity.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the statement 'Chronic stress can suppress immune function, making individuals more susceptible to illness' best reflects the scientific understanding of stress effects on the immune system.